Swine are especially susceptible to zearalenone effects. Physiological responses in swine occur when zearalenone level in corn used for feeds exceeds about 1 ppm (Kurtz and Mirocah, 1978).

FDA Levels:

There are no advisory levels currently available. The FDA recommends only that the level of concern for zearalenone be observed.

Zearalenone (ppb)

Concern Levela

Cattleb

Swineb

Major ingredient (dry basis)

560

5,600-10,000

1,100-5,600

TRDMe

560

3,900-7,000

600-3,900

a Level indicating possible favorable conditions for mycotoxins and probable need for further testing of all feeds or the TMR. Pending further tests, negative samples should be considered at concern levels in the presence of moderate symptoms and at harmful levels with marked symptoms. Limit amounts fed if moderate performance effects are present. Discontinue use at least temporarily if pronounced performance effects or acute clinical symptoms are present. Closely observe animals and continue checking for other possible causes.

bPotentially Harmful - Mycotoxins at these levels indicate probably involvement in performance effects or acute clinical symptoms. Discontinue feeding at least temporarily in the presence of either type of symptoms. Observe animals closely in the absence of symptoms and do further testing of all feeds or the TMR.